Portrait of a Cleric 1897

Simeon Solomon's "Portrait of a Cleric" (1897) is a striking depiction of a young man in clerical garb. The subject's pale skin and long, flowing blond hair create a sense of ethereal beauty, contrasting with the dark shadows cast by his collar and the textured background. Solomon, a prominent figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, often explored themes of spirituality and beauty in his work. This intimate portrait, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a glimpse into Solomon's artistic vision and his fascination with the complexities of human identity.